Telangana Chief Minister Extends Invitation to PM Modi for Khelo India Youth Games Launch

Telangana's Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the upcoming Khelo India Youth Games, set to take place from December 11 to 22. This event will be hosted across six cities, welcoming around 8,000 athletes. The unveiling of the Games' logo and mascot, 'Neelamani', symbolizes the state's commitment to nurturing young talent and promoting sports as a vital part of Telangana's identity. The Games will feature 27 competitive sports and two demonstration events, aiming to inspire the youth and foster future Olympic champions.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 15, 2026, 19:23 IST

Invitation to Prime Minister Modi

On November 15, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy officially invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the eighth Khelo India Youth Games, which will take place in Telangana from December 11 to 22. The Chief Minister, alongside Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, met with the Prime Minister to unveil the Games' logo and mascot.

This marks the first time Telangana will host the Khelo India Youth Games, expecting to welcome approximately 8,000 athletes and participants from various cities including Hyderabad, Khammam, Karimnagar, Hanumakonda, Mahabubnagar, and Nizamabad.

Significance of the Event

During the unveiling, CM Reddy expressed pride in hosting the Games, emphasizing the state's commitment to providing young athletes with the necessary training, education, and infrastructure. He stated that spreading the Games across six cities aims to inspire more youth to engage in sports, with aspirations to cultivate future Olympic champions and eventually host the Olympic Games.

Reddy also acknowledged Mandaviya for the opportunity to host the event and highlighted the importance of sports in promoting the Prime Minister's vision of a drug-free youth for a developed India.

Mascot and Logo Details

The mascot, named 'Neelamani', symbolizes youthful energy, courage, agility, and cultural pride. Its blue and turquoise feathers represent freedom and confidence, while its features signify momentum, focus, and leadership. The logo creatively merges sporting silhouettes with iconic Telangana landmarks and cultural symbols, such as the Kakatiya Kala Thoranam, the Buddha statue at Hussain Sagar, the Tangedu flower, and the planned Gandhi Tower at Bapu Ghat.

The tagline, 'Khel Ka Junoon, Telangana Ki Jaan Aur Pehchaan,' underscores the integral role of sports in the state's identity. The Games will showcase 27 competitive sports along with two demonstration events, marking the competitive debut of softball and including sailing and Karra Samu as demonstration sports, thereby broadening the platform for young athletes to display their skills.